Palazzo Rasponi dalle Teste
The 17th-century Palazzo Rasponi dalle Teste is a historic building in Ravenna overlooking Piazza Kennedy, not far from Piazza del Popolo. The palace currently houses some offices of the City of Ravenna, as well as being a venue for conferences, exhibitions, cultural events and even weddings.
Built at the behest of the Rasponi family, the building has recently been restored. The overlooking area, corresponding to today's square, was once the palace's large private garden, and at the same time also housed the city market. During the restoration of the square the remains of an ancient church from the 5th century AD called Basilica of Sant'Agnese were also discovered.
The Rasponi
It was Giovanni Rasponi, Bishop of Forlì, who initiated the construction of Palazzo Rasponi at the end of the 17th century, with the support of his brother Giuseppe. The latter's desire was to bring prestige to his family and emphasise its influence within Ravenna society. The Rasponi family had in fact played
a central role in the politics of the city and more generally of Romagna since the 16th century, a role they maintained until the 19th century.
The façade
Completed only during the 18th century, the façade of Palazzo Rasponi incorporates the architectural styles of its era, combining
classicist and mannerist features.
Above the entrance portal stands the
family coat of arms, showing two crossed lion paws. The hall immediately reveals the importance and power of the Rasponi family over the city. The space is really large and divided into two different levels.
What to see inside Palazzo Rasponi
Due to the
bombing during World War II, many decorations of the interior were damaged or destroyed; despite the restorations that followed the end of the conflict, those we see today represent only a part of the original decorations.
Climbing the imposing staircase we reach the first floor, where we can admire the rooms that were once used partly as reception rooms and partly as the residence of the Rasponi family. Inside, we see some interesting works of art, such as
busts depicting the family ancestors and many other artefacts of the highest artistic value.
